*Please note that WashU does not offer a PA program. This page provides information for those interested in applying to programs offered elsewhere.
A list of PA programs can be found on the Web site of the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA).
PA education includes classroom and laboratory instruction in subjects like biochemistry, pathology, human anatomy, physiology, clinical pharmacology, clinical medicine, physical diagnosis, and medical ethics. PA programs also include supervised clinical training in several areas, including family medicine, internal medicine, surgery, prenatal care and gynecology, geriatrics, emergency medicine, and pediatrics. Sometimes, PA students serve in one or more of these areas under the supervision of a physician who is seeking to hire a PA. The rotation may lead to permanent employment in one of the areas where the student works.
Undergraduate Experience
Programs offering master’s degrees require appropriate undergraduate credits with a minimum GPA and virtually all require previous health care experience. Suggested studies prior to applying to a PA program include:
Physician Assistants/Associates perform medical functions that have previously been performed by licensed physicians, including but not limited to:
PAs have a long-standing tradition of serving in areas of need. They provide care to those who otherwise have little or no access to quality health care. PAs work everywhere from remote rural settings to major urban centers, in doctors’ offices, hospitals, clinics, HMOs, the armed forces, and other federal government agencies.